M52 is an open cluster of
stars situated within the constellation of Cassiopeia. It can be
seen against the backdrop of a Milky Way field. This object has
been described as a "salt and pepper" cluster due to its dense
arrangement of about 200 bright stars. M52 is believed to be
only 23 million years old. Its distance from Earth is not
certain. Estimates range anywhere from 3,000 to 7,000
light-years. With a magnitude of 7.3, this cluster is easily
visible to an observer with binoculars. A small telescope will
reveal the cluster's fainter stars.
